Bankrupt Claire's to keep around 800 stores open in $104M deal

Jewelry retailer Claire’s said Wednesday it would sell its North American business to private equity firm Ames Watson for $104 million in cash, in a deal that will keep at least 795 retail locations in business.

The sale agreement will “allow the Claire’s brand to remain a prominent retailer for teens, tweens, and young girls around the world,” Claire’s said in a court document filed on Wednesday.

Ames Watson, a private holding company that owns athletic apparel brands including Champion Teamwear and Lids, is acquiring Claire’s brand and up to 950 Claire’s stores, according to court documents.

Ames Watson, a private holding company that owns athletic apparel brands including Champion Teamwear and Lids, is acquiring Claire’s brand and up to 950 Claire’s stores, according to court documen